First India-Jaipur Edition-11th April 2023

New Delhi: Twitter chief, billionaire Elon Musk has started following PM Narendra Modi. A screenshot of a list of 195 people he follows showed PM Modi’s name on Monday, screenshot soon started gaining traction on the microblogging platform.

ON RAHUL’S ‘`20K CR’ CHARGE, ADANI GROUP’S COUNTER

New Delhi: Gautam Adani’s group on Monday listed out details of $2.87 bn stake sales in group firms since 2019 and how $2.55 bn of this was ploughed back into business, as it looked to counter Rahul Gandhi’s claim of `20,000 crore coming in to conglomerate through ‘shell companies’. P8

‘TROUBLESHOOTER’ SHAH’S DARE TO CHINA

The land on which first ray of Sun falls in India was named Arunachal Pradesh by Lord Parshuram, says Amit Shah

Moni Sharma

Kibithoo: Arunachal Pradesh finds mention in our oldest sacred books and no one has the power to cast an evil eye on our territory, said Union HM Amit Shah on Monday in a clear swipe at China after it recently published new names for 11 towns located in the eastern region of the state.

“The land on which the first ray of the Sun falls in India was named AP by Lord Parshuram. Since then this earth is known as the Land of Rising Sun,” said Shah said during launch of VVP from Kibithoo in Anjaw district, border village of Arunachal Pradesh which is about 11 km from LAC with China and about 40 km from the India, China and Myanmar tri-junction. “Nobody can take even a pin’s tip worth of our land,” he said.

Shah said Modi govt has changed image of region in 9 years from “disturbed region” to an area contributing to nation’s progress.

CHINA CRITICISES UNION HOME MINISTER SHAH’S VISIT TO ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Beijing: China firmly opposes a visit by Union HM Amit Shah to Arunachal and views his activities in the area as violating Beijing’s territorial sovereignty, a foreign ministry spokesperson told on Monday. China has renamed some places in Arunachal, which China claims as part of its territory. “Zangnan is China’s territory,” spokesperson Wang Wenbin said in response to a question on visit by Shah.

Over 20,000 criminals arrested in March: DGP

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Rajasthan Police have arrested over 20,000 offenders including hardcore criminals last month under a campaign against mafia and gangsters in state, DGP Umesh Mishra said on Monday. Calling it a record action against criminals in Rajasthan, Mishra said campaign against hardcore criminals, mafia and gangsters who operate their

OTHER TOP RAJ STORIES

Former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot along with his supporters to observe a day-long fast in Jaipur today on the issue of not taking action on scams when Raje was CM. P10

Four people were arrested and nine kilogram of heroin smuggled from Pakistan and worth around `35 crore was seized in the Jaisalmer district, police said on Monday. P4 PM Narendra Modi will flag off Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat train on April 12 at 11 am virtually.

The programme will take place on platform No. 1 of the Jaipur Junction. P10

MODI’S POLICY OF DEMOCRACY, DIALOGUE IMP FOR UKRAINE: EMINE

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy of democracy, dialogue and diversification and strategic application is very important for Ukraine, first deputy foreign minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Monday. P8

AI takes ‘u turn’!

 Air India to London returns to New Delhi after unruly flyer hits 2 crew

The flier was later deboarded, police case registered, investigation on

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Air India

 Boeing 787 (AI 111) took off from Delhi at 6.52 am & returned at 9.36 am

gangs from jails or foreign will continue. He said campaign against hardcore criminals, mafia and gangsters who operate their gangs from jails or foreign will continue. More on P4

ABOUT CENTRE’S ‘VIBRANT VILLAGES PROGRAMME’

The Centre has approved the ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’ with central components of `4,800 crore including 2,500 crore exclusively for road connectivity for fin years 2022-23 to 2025-26.

2,967 villages in 46 blocks of 19 districts abutting northern border in Arunachal, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal and UT of Ladakh have been identified for comprehensive development under ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’.

Due to the bravery of our army and ITBP soldiers, no one can see the border of our country by raising their eyes. Now those times are gone when anyone could encroach on the land of India. Today no one can encroach even on land equal to the point of a needle.

—Amit Shah, Union Home Minister

Delhi-London flight (AI111) on Monday had to return to the origin as unruly passenger had hit 2 cabin crew members. AI said, ‘Not heeding to verbal and written warnings, man continued with unruly behaviour including causing physical harm to two of the cabin crew members. Pilot in command decided to return to Delhi, passenger was handed over to the security personnel upon landing.

Passenger had hit two of our crew members. The flight could not have continued to the destination and returned to Delhi. The passenger has been handed over to the police and a complaint has been filed. —AI sources

PASSENGER WHO ATTACKED CREW MENTALLY UNSTABLE, CLAIMS FAMILY

The father of a passenger, who was deboarded from an Air India (AI 111) flight for allegedly attacking the crew, has claimed that his son is mentally unstable. The family had boarded the flight from New Delhi to attend a wedding in London, but an hour after the take-off Jaskirat said he wanted to get down, his father claimed, adding that his son had first attacked him.

Covovax booster jab to be on CoWIN for `225/dose Dalai Lama apologises to boy, his family

First India Bureau New Delhi: In view of rising cases of COVID-19 in various parts of the country, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is learnt to have approved the inclusion of Serum Institute’s Covovax on the CoWIN portal as a heterologous booster dose for adults, official sources said on Monday.

VIRAL VIDEO ROW

First India Bureau

Mansukh Mandaviya speaks to media at Delhi on Monday.

India recorded 5,880 new Covid-19 cases on Monday. A nationwide 2-day mock drill in all hospitals in India begin.

Raj govt to appoint 2k tax mitras for collection of GST, VAT

Gehlot also approves ‘AI’ based e-tax officer software platform to provide facility of ‘self tax check’ to the dealers

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Rajasthan government will appoint 2,000 ‘Tax Mitra’ to facilitate the collection of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Value Added Tax (VAT). The ‘Tax Mitra’ will facilitate the applicants in the application process of GST and VAT and this will make it easier

After

to deposit the tax.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a proposal in this regard.

Gehlot also gave approval to develop ‘Artificial Intelligence’ based e-tax officer software plat-

form to provide facility of ‘self tax check’ to the dealers. The minimum educa-

‘BELOW NORMAL’ RAINS IN 2023

tional qualification for Tax Mitra is graduation in commerce. Preference will be given to ex-

El-Nino likely to spoil ‘monsoon’ sport!

First India Bureau

New Delhi: India is likely to receive belownormal monsoon rains in 2023 as the climate phenomenon El Nino takes over. Private weather agency Skymet has predicted that there is an increasing likelihood of El-Nino in Asia, which could become a dominant category during the monsoon. The weather agency predicted that the monsoon in 2023 will be below normal at

WHAT IS EL-NINO?

perienced applicants including Chartered Accountants (CA) and Company Secretaries (CS) and the age limit has been fixed from 21 to 40 years.

Tax Mitra will charge a fee for various tax-related application processes, for which a fee structure has also been decided. A fee of Rs 50 to Rs 400 has been kept for works including GST, VAT application, amendment, ITC, e-way bill, subsidy application, MSME application.

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT THE INDIAN MONSOON THIS YR

 IOD is neutral now and is leaning to turn moderately positive at the start of monsoon

 El Nino may be ‘out of phase’, lead to extreme variability in monthly rain distribution

868.6 mm for the fourmonth-long period from June to September. “Skymet expects the upcoming mon-

E l Nino or El NiñoSouthern Oscillation is characterized by a warming of the sea surface temperature in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. It occurs every 2 to 7 years, and it has the potential to disrupt weather patterns around the world, including in India.

soon to be ‘below normal to the tune of 94 per cent of the long period average,” the agency said. More on

New Delhi: Dalai Lama has apologised after outrage over a video of him kissing a child on the lips and asking him to “suck my tongue” at a public event. The 87-year-old spiritual leader and his team said, he “often teases people he meets in an innocent and playful way”. “A video clip has been circulating that shows a recent meeting when a young boy asked His Holiness the Dalai Lama if he could give him a hug. His Holiness wishes to apologise to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world, for the hurt his words may have caused,” official statement said.

CRUCIAL READ

RADICAL PREACHER AMRITPAL’S CLOSE AIDE PAPALPREET HELD IN AMRITSAR

Chandigarh: Radical preacher Amritpal Singh’s close aide Papalpreet Singh was nabbed in Amritsar district and detained under the National Security Act, police said on Monday. Addressing media, Pb Police IG (HQ) Sukhchain Singh Gill said, ‘Papalpreet is the main associate of Amritpal. He has been arrested from Kathunangal area in Amritsar.’

NAT’L PARTY TAG TO AAP; TMC, NCP MISS AGNIPATH SCHEME: SC DISMISSES TWO PLEAS

New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) Monday granted national party status to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), revoked status of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), and Communist Party of India (CPI). P9

New Delhi: The Supreme Court’s bench of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud on Monday dismissed two pleas challenging a Delhi HC judgment that upheld the Centre’s Agnipath scheme for recruitment into the armed forces.

“NOBODY CAN TAKE OUR LAND...”

Amit Shah inspecting Border Outpost of ITBP, took stock of ITBP’s preparedness after launching the ‘Vibrant Villages Programme’ in presence of CM Pema Khandu in Kibithoo, Arunachal on Monday.

Union HM Amit Shah being received by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, BJP MLA Prasanta Phukon and others at Dibrugarh airport on Monday. (R) Amit Shah launches ‘VVP’ at Kibithoo on Monday.

recovering from Covid-19, CM Ashok Gehlot is likely to conduct a press conference at the PCC in Jaipur today

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot

DGP Umesh Mishra

5,137 TEAMS RAID AT 13,600 HIDEOUTS AND NAB 20,542 MISCREANTS IN STATE

Vajraprahar’ damages backbone of miscreants, crime dips by 9%

‘

Shivendra Parmar and Satyanarayan Sharma

Jaipur: Following instructions of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, 5,137 teams of police raided around 13,600 hideouts of criminals and arrested 20,542 miscreants in a comprehensive campaign against hardened criminals, mafia and criminal gangs in the state. This has lessened crime by 9% until March as compared to last year.

Director General of Police, Rajasthan Umesh Mishra, senior officers, including DGP Cybercrime Ravi Mehrada, ADG Crime Dinesh MN and ADG Law and Order Hava Singh Ghumaria held a press conference on Monday regarding this.

Director General of Police, Rajasthan Umesh Mishra said that according to the motto of Rajasthan Police, “Trust in common people and fear in criminals”, homework was done in depth by all the districts and ranges before starting the state level ‘Area Domination and Raid and Search Campaign’. The Range Inspector General worked in the control room and the Superintendents of Police worked in the fields in a coordinated manner to make the campaign a success.

1,411 history-sheeter, 5,833 wanted criminals arrested in special drive

SPs were on field while range IGs monitored from control room: DGP

ACTION AGAINST GANGSTERS’ SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWERS

Acquittal of 2008 Jpr blasts accused to be analysed: DGP

Jaipur (PTI): The Rajasthan Police will conduct an internal audit and analyse the High Court order that acquitted four people in the 2008 Jaipur serial blasts while terming the investigation “shoddy”.

Director General of Police Umesh Mishra said they have taken comments of the “court seriously and are examining the files in detail”.

COPS TARGET FIRING & EXTORTION GANGS

DGP Mishra said that action has been taken against those who praise, follow and patronize criminals. The campaign specifically targeted gangs involving firearms displays and firing incidents. Along with this, the gangs involved in threatening businessmen and elite citizens for recovery were also targeted by the police.

TAB ON CRIMINALS OPERATING FROM ABROAD

The Director General said that some criminals were committing crimes from outside the country. An investigation is being done against them through Interpol. A red corner notice has been issued against Rohit Godara and action is under process to issue notices against Anmol Vishnoi and Goldie Brar.

ACTION ON CRIMINALS WHO TRIED TO ESCAPE

Action against criminals trying to escape custody

Mishra said that strict action is being taken by the police against those who attack the police and those who try to escape police custody. In 2023, 21 criminals were shot in police encounters and 25 criminals were injured while trying to escape.

Overall, 20,542 people have been arrested under the campaign, including 7,683 arrests in 151 CrPC. About 13,600 places were raided by 5137 police teams across the state and 535 people were arrested. Of the arrests made in the campaign, 1,411 are history-sheeters, hardened criminals with rewards on head, while 5,833 are permanent warrant, proclaimed offenders and 299 are wanted criminals under CrPC. A total of 649 cases of illegal use of firearms were registered and 677 miscreants were arrested, from whom 690 firearms and 1062 cartridges were recovered. By registering 342 cases in NDPS Act, 375 miscreants and by registering 1088 cases of illegal liquor, 1085 people were arrested and 649 cases of illegal mining were registered. Thus, compared to February 2022, there was an increase of about 55% in Arms Act cases, 90% in NDPS cases and 8% in illegal liquor cases in March 2023.

State forest dept exhibits history of tigers in Mysuru

Nirmal Tiwari

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Forest Department has exhibited the history of tigers of Ranthambore National Park in the three-day mega event in Mysuru (K’taka), being held to commemorate 50 yrs of Project Tiger.

The forest department has put up a stall wherein information about the history of tigers in Rajasthan and the increase in their number in last 50 years are being shared. R’bore Field Director Seduram Yadav and DCF Manas Singh are sharing infor-

mation with the people visiting the stall. Notably, more than 200 tigers were born in Rajasthan during these 50 years. The number of tigers is 75 in Ranthambore, 28 in Sariska, 4 in Karauli, 3 in Dholpur and two each in MTR and RVTR.

OPERATION VAJRAPRAHAR!

I n order to root out the criminals, the police started Op Vajraprahar, under which the criminals were arrested & searches were being conducted for action against their properties and vehicles, etc. acquired illegally. Out of 11,512 historysheeters, records of 2,471 properties have been maintained and I-T dept were informed for action.

A jmer and Jaipur ranges topped in the arrest of wanted criminals. More than 7 thousand were arrested by Ajmer, Alwar and Bhilwara districts and 4 thousand to 7 thousand by Tonk, Chittorgarh and Jodhpur West districts. ADG Dinesh MN said that in 2023, until the month of March, a total of 31 cases of illegal recovery were registered and 68 people were arrested and 355 people were arrested by registering 150 cases for use of firearms. Before the campaign, 15 cases of phone calls for illegal recovery were registered in the month of January 2023, 12 in the month of February, which as a result of the campaign reduced to four cases in March 2023. About 13000 wanted criminals were arrested in a month. Bandit Keshav Gurjar was eliminated along with his gang. Most of the members of Lawrence Bishnoi gang were also arrested. Their weapons were also seized.

Heroin worth `35 crore seized, four held by Crime Branch HQ

Satyanarayan Sharma

Jaipur: CID (Crime Branch) Jaipur team arrested four smugglers and recovered nine kg high quality heroin worth Rs 35 crore in the international market brought from Pakistan to Jaisalmer district. A Bolero was also seized.

ADG (Crime) Dinesh

MN said that the team of Crime Branch Police HQs Jaipur was taking action against illegal drug peddlers. He said that the police were keeping an eye on smugglers for about a month.

Dy IGP of CID (CB) Rahul Prakash said that action was taken following a tip-off. According to information, heroin was being smuggled from Pakistan and supplied through Jaisalmer in Rajasthan and also to Punjab, HP, New Delhi. According to informa-

tion in Mohangarh police station area of Jaisalmer district, Suratgarh resident Amar Lal Bhadu was arrested with 500 grams of heroin, Ramchandra Vishnoi with 500 grams, Jogendra Singh with 8 kg of heroin & smuggler Madho Singh were held.

By registering a total of 36 cases against those who follow criminals on social media, 56 people were arrested and 1,027 people were arrested in preventive sections. As a result of effective action against social media followers and gangsters, youths have been disillusioned with these criminals. Monu Group had a total of 36,537 followers in Bikaner before the campaign, which has now reduced to 9,189. Similarly, Rohit Godara’s followers have decreased from 38,862 to 6,558. 20,542 MISCREANTS ARRESTED: Additional Director General of Police Crime Dinesh MN said that in March 2023, as a result of the special campaign being run by the police for area domination, 12,895 criminals wanted in various crimes, including 433 wanted in heinous crimes, have been arrested.

Jaipur was rocked by a series of blasts on May 13, 2008 when bombs went off one after another at Manak Chawk Khanda, Chandpole Gate, Badi Chaupad, Chhoti Chaupad, Tripolia Gate, Johri Bazar and Sanganeri Gate. The blasts claimed 71 lives and left 185 injured.

The Rajasthan High Court last month ac-

quitted four men who were given death sentence by a lower court. The HC slammed the probe agencies over their “shoddy investigation”. It also affirmed the acquittal of a fifth accused by trial court. Days after the HC’s adverse comments, DGP said an internal audit will be conducted and the court’s observations will be analysed. The DGP said he himself is overseeing it.

124 RPS shifted in State by Home dept

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Gehlot government transferred 124 Rajasthan Police Service officers on Monday.

The transfers are being seen as a fielding before the elections.

According to the order issued by Group-1 of the Home department, Preeti Kankani has been made ASP Crime and Vigilance Ajmer, Akhilesh Sharma ASP Kekri, Piyush Dixit ASP

Principal Police Training Center Alwar, Ramswaroop Sharma Commandant MBC Banswara, Satyendra Pal Singh ASP Barmer, Sub-

Ruckus in JMCG HQs over 2 temporary staff

Bharat Dixit

Jaipur: Angry over not getting two temporary employees, BJP councilors on Monday created a ruckus at the JMCG Headquarters. They created uproar outside commissioner Mahendra Soni’s chamber, raised slogans and sat on a dharna. Later, they held a meeting with the commissioner in the EC hall in which the councilors were assured that two temporary employees will be made available soon.

Mayor Dr Somya and Deputy Mayor Puneet

Karnawat were also present in the meeting. However, they kept distance from the protest.

Karnawat even said that his opinion is not sought in any matter so why should he lead the demonstration, which indicated rift among the councilors.

Off-season tourists footfall breaks record of 12 yrs in Udaipur

First India Bureau

Udaipur: The footfall of tourists in Udaipur this summer season has broken the record of last 12 years. According to the data released by the Tourism Department, 1 lakh 38 thousand domestic tourists arrived in the month of March. In the last 12 years, this never happened in March.

According to the tourism dept, a total of 1 lakh 52 thousand 26 tourists

visited Udaipur in March, of domestic tourists were 1 lakh 38 thousand, and 14 thousand 26 were foreigners. This time it rained in March and this brought down the temperature & increased tourists here.

Earlier in January, the Lake City had surpassed the record of last 14 years. As many as 1.94 L tourists visited Udaipur, surpassing the record of the last 14 years, according to figures released by tourism officials.

hash Chandra ASP Balotra. Faulal Meena has been posted in Women and Crime Investigation Cell, Barmer, Deepak Kumar Sharma was made ASP Bikaner Rural, Devanand ASP Abhay Command and Control Center Bikaner, Dharamveer Janu has also been posted on the same post. Buglal Meena has been posted as ASP Headquarters, Chittorgarh and Subhash Chandra Mishra was made ASP Rawatbhata. It is believed that the transfers were made on the desire of ministers and MLAs.

MAGRA DEVP BOARD MEETING HELD IN JAIPUR

Jaipur: The meeting of the Magra Regional Development Board was organized on Monday. The meeting was chaired by the Chairman of the Magra Regional Development Board, Dr Laxman Singh Rawat, wherein Revenue Minister Ram Lal Jat was also present. The physical and financial progress of the scheme was discussed in the meeting and the annual work plan for the financial year 202324 was also approved. Dr Rawat directed all the CEOs and District Collectors that the works approved in the FY 2022-23 should be completed soon. Min Jat said that permission should be taken from competent level by proposing approval of work.

SECOND BAIL PLEA OF RAPE ACCUSED REJECTED IN HC

Jaipur: The Raj HC on Monday rejected the second bail application on an accused facing charges of rape of a colleague. The accused, Rahul Kumar (25), a former employee of a luxury hotel in Sawai Madhopur, was arrested on charges of raping a female colleague on June 30, 2022. The victim’s counsel AK Jain opposed the bail plea and said that there have been no changes in the circumstances. “The victim recorded her statement in court and there is solid evidence of gang rape. The accused was working as a senior in the hotel and called the victim repeatedly during the night. The accused is influential and the bail application should be rejected,” said AK Jain.

DGP Umesh Mishra briefing the media in Jaipur on Monday. ADG (Crime) Dinesh MN, DGP (Cyber Crime) Ravi Prakash Mehrada, and ADG (Law and Order) Hawa Singh Ghumaria also seen. —PHOTO BY MUKESH KIRADOO

We’ve tightened noose on miscreants who are operating from abroad: DGP

THE

1,411 HISTORY-SHEETERS AND 5,833 WANTED CRIMINALS ARRESTED UNDER VARIOUS ACTS AJMER, JAIPUR TOP IN ARRESTING WANTED CRIMINALS; OVER 7,000 FROM AJMER ALONE

(L-R )Ramchandra Vishnoi, Amar Lal Bhadu, Madho Singh, and Jogendra Singh in police custody on Monday.

Manas Singh, Rahul Bhatnagar, SR Yadav and other officials in Mysuru on Monday.

Councilors staging protest at the JMCG HQs on Monday.

CONVOCATION CEREMONY OF JAGADGURU RAMANANDACHARYA RAJASTHAN SANSKRIT UNIVERSITY

Four awarded honorary doctorate by Guv Mishra

Guv Mishra also felicitated 16 students, 14 scholars with gold medals

Pooja Dubey

Jaipur: Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra on Monday awarded honorary degree of PhD to international shooter Apurvi Chandela, architect Anoop Bartaria, founder editor of Mahanagar Times Gopal Sharma and Muralimnohar Pathak at a function on Monday.

Mishra also gave gold medals to 16 students and 14 research scholars who have done research in ancient texts in the convocation ceremony of Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Rajasthan Sanskrit University, Jaipur.

8,842 degrees of the academic session 2021 were distributed in the ceremony. Addressing the function, the Governor said that Sanskrit language has played an important role in keeping the country’s unity and integrity intact.

He emphasised on promoting Sanskrit by giving a new context

for connecting new generations with ancient Indian literature and culture.

Mishra said that initiative should be taken to translate the literature, books related to knowledge and science composed in Sanskrit into other Indian languages along with Hindi so that the ancient knowledge of Sanskrit could be available to the new generation.

Rajsamand BJP workers attempt to gherao collectorate, clash with police

Ashish Choudhary

Rajsamand: Police resorted to water cannon and cane-charging against the BJP workers who took out a protest rally against the State Government over various issues, including deteriorating law and order, in Rajsamand on Monday.

A large number of BJP workers led by the party’s state president CP Joshi and MP Diya Kumari took out Jan Aakrosh Mahagherao in Rajsamand city to submit a memorandum to the district collector.

The workers holding placards raised anti-government slogans and marched towards the district collector’s office, however, they were stopped by the police.

“Farm loans were not waived, youths did not get unemployment allowance and their future was put into dark as paper leaks occurred,” CP Joshi told reporters.

Guv Mishra inaugurates Aravali Homeopathy Hosp in Jagatpura

Suspended AdSP Divya Mittal gets bail in graft case

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Suspended AdSP Divya Mittal , facing charges of corruption to the tune of Rs 2 crore, was granted bail by the NDPS court on Monday.

WAS NEVER A CONTENDER FOR POST OF CHIEF MINISTER: POONIA

Kashiram Choudhary

Jaipur: Governor Kalraj Mishra on Monday inaugurated Aravali Homeopathy Hospital and Research Centre in Jagatpura on World Homeopathic Day.

First India Channel Head Dr Jagdeesh Chandra also attended the programme.

Jaipur MP Ramcharan Bohra, Moti Dungri Ganesh temple’s mahant Pandit Kailash Sharma, Pandit Rajkumar Sharma from Tonk and others were also present.

Governor Kalraj

Finance Dept approves 203 new sub-health centres in State

Mishra, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, and Mahant Kailash Sharma observed the facilities available for the treat-

ment of patients in the hospital and congratulated the director of the hospital, Dr Ashok Singh Solanki.

Judge Khushal Singh made an observation and said that the SOG did not present any written complaint and prior permission from the state government was also not taken, hence, she should be released on bail.

Petitioner’s counsel Bhagwan Singh Chauhan said that Divya Mittal has also been booked under NDPS Act, but the investigation officer ASP Kamal Tanwar did not follow the procedure laid down under the NDPS Act.

Statewide mock drills held to keep coronavirus at bay

Vikas Sharma

CONGRESS GOVT RESPONSIBLE FOR ATROCITIES AGAINST WOMEN: CP JOSHI

Udaipur: State BJP President CP Joshi visited Udaipur on Monday. He was welcomed by party leaders and workers at Udaipur airport. While speaking to media persons, CP Joshi attacked the Congress Government and said that the police should be blamed for the rape and murder of an 8-year-old girl in the Mavli area of Udaipur. “The situation has become such that every morning in Rajasthan when up wake up, you see a girl being raped. The state government have been irresponsible in handling such issues. In Balotra too, a woman was burnt with acid, despite not having a burn unit there, she was not referred and she died. The government is responsible for this,” said CP Joshi.

Jaisalmer: Deputy Leader of Opposition Satish Poonia during his visit to Jaisalmer on Monday said he was never a contender for the post of Chief Minister. “I was never a contender for the Chief Minister post, neither am I today nor will I be a contender in future. Even if the party offers CM’s post, I will politely decline it. Our only aim is that the party should come back to power and Narendra Modi should again become the Prime Minister in 2024,” added Satish Poonia. During his visit, he met the family members of the Dalit woman who was recently killed in Balotra. Poonia also met Nimb Singh of Seema Jan Kalyan Samiti and gave condolence on the demise of her mother.

TEMPERATURE SOARS IN STATE

First India Bureau Jaipur: The Finance Department has given approval for opening 203 new sub-health centres in the State on Monday. Health Minister Parsadi Lal Meena said that approval has been issued to open 203 new sub-health centres along with posts. He informed that apart from sanctioning Rs30 lakh each for the construction work of sub-health centre, new posts of female health worker (one at each sub centre) have also been approved. The Minister said that with the opening of new sub-health centres, the nearby citizens will be able to get the benefit of medical facilities near their homes. The minister said that the expansion of medical facilities in remote and rural areas of the state has been the priority of the state government.

Mercury hovers above 40°C in Banswara

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Mercury has started soaring in various places in Rajasthan with Banswara being recorded as the hottest district with a maximum temperature of 40.3 degrees Celsius in the last 24 hours, a spokesperson from the meteorological department said.

Jaipur: With rising Covid cases across the country, including Rajasthan, preparations are afoot to prevent reinfection in government hospitals and deal with any disaster. In compliance with the instructions of the Central Government, preparations were reviewed on Monday through mock drills in hospitals across the State. Sampling, medicines, ICU, oxygen plant and ventilator were tested in hospitals. Mock drill was also conducted at the SMS Hospital here. Of the total 2,570 beds in the hospital, 1751 oxygen beds are working, while there are 381 ICU beds and 371 ventilators.

Medical Education Secretary T Ravikanth, Med Secretary Dr Prithvi and other officials during the review meeting in Jaipur on Monday.

COVID-19 REVIEW MEET ORGANISED

Jaipur: The officials of the Medical and Health Department on Monday reviewed the situation of the coronavirus in the State. A mock drill was held in government hospitals to assess the preparedness to handle the cases of Covid-19. Medical Education Secretary T Ravikant and Medical Secretary Dr Prithvi inquired about the preparations for the control and management of the coronavirus.

Min Joshi inaugurates several facilities at Gangori Hospital

the department. Partly cloudy weather is expected in some parts of the Jodhpur division on Monday with a possibility of thunderstorms and drizzles at isolated places, the spokesperson said. The weather will remain mainly dry for the next two-three days in parts of Jaipur, Udaipur, Bharatpur, Ajmer and Kota divisions, the spokesperson added.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan, Punjab, Hary-

ana, and Uttar Pradesh, known as the agricultural bowl of North India, are likely to observe less than normal rains during the 2nd half of the season, the weather forecaster said. Unseasonal rains and hailstorms have already damaged the ripening, winterplanted crops such as wheat in India’s fertile northern, central, and western plains, exposing thousands of farmers to losses.

Dinesh Tiwari

Jaipur: PHED Minister Mahesh Joshi on Monday inaugurated several services and facilities in Gangori Bazar hospital in Hawamahal constituency. He said that the number of patients has been constantly increasing in the hospitals and look-

ing to that, a new building of the hospital is being constructed and the number of beds will be doubled from 300 to 600. The minister was talking to reporters after inaugurating eco cardiology machine, hall for patients and attendants, an ambulance with advanced equipment and facilities.

DEATHS

2 deaths in Jhalawar 1 death in Bikaner 55 cases in Jaipur 35 cases in Rajsamand 22 cases in Jhalawar

Army jawan shoots himself dead in Bikaner

First India Bureau

Bikaner: An Army jawan allegedly shot himself dead with his service rifle in Rajasthan’s Bikaner district on Monday, police said.

Laxman Singh Rawat (43), posted at Army’s arms depot, committed suicide at around 4 am, they said.

The body was handed over to the army after post-mortem, police said, adding that the matter has been registered under CrPC section 174. Laxman Singh Rawat was a resident of Pauri Garhwal in Uttarakhand.

Governor Kalraj Mishra presents honorary doctorate to Anoop Bartaria. BD Kalla, Dr Ramsevak Dubey and others look on.

Police personnel try to stop BJP workers from entering Collectorate building in Rajsamand on Monday.

Tourists visiting Amer Fort use umbrella as a sunshade as temperature rises in the State. —PHOTO BY SUNIL SHARMA

Governor Kalraj Mishra presents honorary doctorate to Gopal Sharma. BD Kalla, Dr Ramsevak Dubey and others look on. —PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

Governor Kalraj Mishra inaugurating Aravali Homeopathy Hospital and Research Centre in Jagatpura as Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, Dr Dr Ashok Singh Solanki and others look on.

Governor Kalraj Mishra, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, Dr Ashok Singh Solanki, and Mahant Pandit Kailash Sharma during the inauguration of Aravali Homeopathy Hospital on Monday.

Minister Mahesh Joshi during the inauguration ceremony at Gangori Hospital in Jaipur on Monday.

BIG CAT COUNT GETS BIGGER

space for monitoring tiger populations. This remains constant to date, with each grid assigned a unique code for subsequent analysis and comparison.

The writer is Editor (News) in First India, Jaipur

The all-India tiger estimation conducted in 2022 stands out as the most extensive wildlife survey to date, encompassing 20 states and entailing an impressive foot survey of 6,41,449 kilometres, according to data released by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

The study team involved officials and experts from the NTCA and the states, research biologists, scientists, coordinators, interns and volunteers. As part of the exercise, the team sampled 3,24,003 habitat plots to gather data on vegetation, human impacts and ungulate dung.

The study required an immense amount of effort, with the team investing more than 6,41,102 man-days to complete it. “We believe that this is the world’s largest effort invested in any wildlife survey till date, on all of the above counts,” the report read.

The camera traps installed at 32,588 locations resulted in an impressive 4,70,81,881 photographs, including 97,399 captures of tigers, according to the “Status of Tigers 2022” report released by PM Narendra Modi at an event in Mysuru on Sunday

Bhupender Yadav @byadavbjp

TOP TWEETS

The camera traps captured the images of a total of 3,080 tigers (aged above one year). The number represents an increase compared to the figures (2,697) of 2018. “Based on the findings, the minimum population estimate of tigers in India is 3,167 individuals, reflecting an encouraging upward trend in the tiger population,” a senior environment ministry official said.

In 2006, the country established a 100-square kilometre grid as the standard sampling

India is the only country where tiger population is growing as opposed to other nations, where it has either stagnated or is declining. So, only natural for ‘hatedriven, propaganda media’ Al Jazeera to experience heartburn.

The effort invested in the data collection and collation was more than 6,41,102 man-days, making this the largest survey conducted ever, officials said. The 2022 all-India tiger estimation revealed a notable increase in tiger occupancy. It identified and photographed 3,080 unique tigers, representing an increase from the 2,461 tigers captured in 2018.

According to the report, the minimum estimated population of tigers in India is 3,167, up from 2,697 in 2018. Tiger populations have increased significantly in the Shivalik and Gangetic floodplains as well as in central India, the Northeastern HillsBrahmaputra floodplains and Sundarbans.

However, the Western Ghats, recognised as one of the most notable biodiversity hotspots in India, showed a decline. The region recorded 824 “unique tigers” in 2022, as compared to 981 in 2018. According to the study team, aligning the aspirations of large-scale economic development while safeguarding forests and wildlife and mitigating human-tiger conflict is one of the major challenges.

Anurag Thakur @ianuragthakur

SC dismissing 2 pleas challenging Delhi HC judgment to allow recruitment of Agniveer in armed forces exposed opposition & its conspiracy to trigger nationwide violence by misguiding youth.

Agnipath is a game changer to bolster armed forces, giving youth an opportunity to serve India.

2022 DATA COLLECTION EXERCISE

THE FIRST PHASE

The exercise involved data collection across the country, covering 10,146 grids of 100 square km each. The entire phase-1 data was collected using the MSTrIPES android application

THE SECOND PHASE

It was conducted at the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun, entailed generating landscape-level data using remote sensing and secondary data sources

THE SECOND PHASE

It involved sampling at 174 sites, encompassing 32,588 locations, which yielded 4,70,81,881 photographs, including 97,399 pictures of tigers.

MODI: “AMAZING EXPERIENCE” AT TIGER RESERVES

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday released the Tiger Census while inaugurating the International Big Cat Alliance in Karnataka’s Mysuru, the first of its kind in the country, organised to mark 50 years of Project Tiger. The figures of the 5th cycle of India’s Tiger Census revealing that tiger numbers have once again increased in the country and now stands at 3,167 in the wild as of 2022, said PM Modi. PM Narendra Modi posted some more pictures from what he described as an “amazing experience.” “Yes, here are some more pictures from Sunday. Was an amazing experience,” PM wrote on his Twitter handle. The prime minister’s visits to the wildlife sanctuaries commemorated 50th anniversary of “Project Tiger”.

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.

MONI SHARMA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Bandipur Tiger Reserves, on Sunday.

Nationwide mock drill to take stock of preparedness on Covid

India logs 5,880 new coronavirus cases, active cases increase to 35,199 during last 24 hours

New Delhi (PTI):

Amid a spike in COVID-19 cases, mock drills to take stock of hospital preparedness were held in several public and private facilities across the country on Monday.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya visited the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in the city to review the mock drill there.

India logged 5,880 new coronavirus cases, while the active cases have increased to 35,199. The death toll has increased to 5,30,979 with 14 deaths, according to the health ministry data updated on Monday.

In a review meeting held on April 7, Mandaviya had urged state health ministers to visit hospitals and oversee the mock drills on April 10 and 11.

In the meeting with state health ministers, and principal and additional chief secretaries held virtually, Mandaviya had stressed the need to identify emergency hotspots by monitoring trends of influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases, ramping up testing and vaccination, and ensuring

Amul vs Nandini in poll-bound Karnataka

Bengaluru: Amid calls to boycott dairy giant Amul’s products in Karnataka, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Managing Director Jayen Mehta said the company’s entry into the state’s dairy market is not to compete but to coexist with the local Nandini brand.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Hotel Association has called upon all hotel owners to boycott Amul products and use the ‘state’s pride’ Nandini to support dairy farmers of Karnataka.

charge sheet content

COVID-19 SURGE: MAHA HOLDS

MOCK DRILLS IN GOVT HOSPITALS

CRUCIAL READ

3 KILLED AFTER BEING RUN OVER BY BUS IN UP

MUSLIMS OFFERING NAMAZ THRASHED, 10 HELD IN SONIPAT

A healthcare worker collects a nasal swab sample of a woman for COVID-19 test during a mock drill for Coronavirus preparedness, at JLNM hospital, in Srinagar on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

COVID-19 TREATMENT: SC

the court and dismissed the plea filed by advocate M.L. Sharma. In October 2020, the Supreme Court had sought Centre’s reply on the plea alleging that Remdesivir and Favipiravir are being used for treatment of Covid-19 without approval. A bench headed by then Chief Justice S.A. Bobde had issued notice to the Centre on the plea and sought its response in four weeks.

readiness of hospital infrastructure.

Besides enhancing genome sequencing and ramping up whole genome sequencing of positive samples, he had laid stress on creating awareness about following Covid-appropriate behaviour.

During the meeting, states and union terri-

tories were informed that currently the World Health Organisation (WHO) is closely tracking a variant of interest (VOI), XBB.1.5, and six other variants (BQ.1, BA.2.75, CH.1.1, XBB, XBF and XBB.1.16).

It was highlighted that while Omicron and its sub-lineages contin-

Chhattisgarh’s Bemetara violence

VHP calls State bandh, urge shutting of shops

Mumbai (PTI): Mock drills to assess the COVID preparedness of government-run hospitals across Maharashtra were carried out on Monday, officials said here. The mock drills, which will also continue on Tuesday, were being conducted after the Union government recently asked states to review the preparedness of the health infrastructure amid a rise in COVID-19 cases across the country over the past few days. At Mumbai’s JJ Hospital, among the biggest medical facilities in the state, one mock drill was held at the OPD and another in the wards, during which medicine stock, X-ray machinery, oxygen supply and personnel deployment etc were checked, an official said. Incidentally, at COVID-19 review meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on April 7, it was observed that Maharashtra was among the three states with 10 or more districts having positivity rate (cases per 100 tests) of more than 10 per cent. On April 7, the addition to the tally was 926, the highest for the state in 2023.

ue to be the predominant variants, most of the assigned variants have little or no significant transmissibility, disease severity or immune escape.

The prevalence of XBB.1.16 increased from 21.6 per cent in February to 35.8 per cent in March. However, no evidence of an

StartUps grew 300 times under PM Modi: Singh

New Delhi (ANI): Union Minister Jitendra Singh while addressing the National Innovation Awards on Monday said that number of StartUps in India grew by whopping 300 times in the last nine years.

increase in hospitalisation or mortality has been reported, the ministry had said in a statement.

During the meeting, it was observed that 23 states and union territories have testing rates that are lower than the current national average of 100 tests per million people.

New Delhi (ANI): Del-

hi’s Saket court on Monday passed an order on a plea moved by Delhi Police against a channel and other channels seeking an order restraining them from disseminating content of charge sheet including digital evidence in the Shraddha murder case stating that it is "not" a public document.

Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Rakesh Kumar Singh passed a restraining order against the channel and list the matter on April 17 for further hearing. The court said that a detailed hearing will be given to both the parties. Special public prosecutor (SPP) Amit Prasad said that the Delhi Police earlier approached the court on credible information that one of the media houses has accessed the audio-video evidence related to the Narco test and the Practo app. This matter is related to the alleged murder of Shraddha Walkar by his live-in partner Aftab Amin Poonawala.

Sitapur: Two men and a woman were killed after being run over by a roadways bus here on Monday, police said. The speeding bus, which was going towards Lucknow, crashed into a service road after hitting a divider in Kamalapur police station area, they said. Paras Kumar, Raju and an unknown woman died on the spot while three injured persons were rushed to a CHC in Kasmanda and their condition is stated to be critical, they said.

Chandigarh: A group of men armed with lathis allegedly barged into a mosque in a village in Haryana’s Sonipat, attacked people offering namaz and vandalised the place, police said on Monday. At least six people were injured in the Sunday evening attack in the mosque in Sandal Kalan village, they said. Police have arrested 10 people for the “unprovoked attack”. They beat up those offering prayers.

NIA RAIDS NINE LOCATIONS IN CPI (MAOIST) CASE, 1 HELD WITH WEAPONS

New Delhi: The NIA on Monday said that they conducted raids at nine locations in Lohardaga in CPI (Maoist) case and arrested a man along with illegal arms. The accused was identified as Sajan Kumar, a resident of Jharkhand. The raids were conducted on Sunday. The NIA had taken up the case of conspiracy by active cadres of CPI (Maoist) to attack security forces in June 2022. A joint operation was launched in February last year by local police and CRPF when cadres of CPI (Maoist) fired indiscriminately upon them at Harkatta Toli.

1 HELD FOR KILLING MAN TIFF OVER POLITICAL ISSUE

New Delhi: A 45-yearold man was killed in Southeast Delhi’s Okhla area following a quarrel with another man over some political issue on Monday. The deceased was identified as Prabhu Nath. According to police, a PCR call regarding a quarrel in Okhla Phase-II was received at Okhla Industrial Area police station on Sunday. “Head Constable Vinod reached the spot and enquired about the matter,” said Rajesh Deo, DCP (Southeast).

5-YEAR-OLD GIRL MOLESTED BY MAN IN DELHI

New Delhi: A five-yearold girl was sexually harassed by a 42-yearold man in South Delhi’s Vasant Kunj area, an official said on Monday, adding that the accused has been arrested. According to police, the matter came to light on Sunday when an information was received at Vasant Kunj South police station regarding sexual harassment with a minor, following which, a police team was dispatched to the spot.

Raipur (ANI): In view of a Statewide ‘bandh’ call by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other organisations over violence in Chhattisgarh’s Bemetara district, workers of the outfit and those of BJP, which has lent support to the protest, have urged people to close their businesses on Monday.

On Saturday, 22-yearold, Bhuneswar Sahu,

was killed in a clash between two groups in the Biranpur village.

Three police personnel were also injured in the incident. Raipur Additional Superintendent of Police Abhishek Maheshwari said, "Today a bandh has been called by Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal. An additional police force has also been deployed in all police stations."

Jitendra Singh said there were just around 350 StartUps before 2014, but after Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a clarion call in 2016, there has been a quantum jump in their numbers to more than 90,000 with more than 100 Unicorns.

OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Time to encourage women to come up with innovative solutions: Prez

New Delhi (PTI): All women use creativity daily in household chores and in other areas, and it is time to encourage them to come up with innovative solutions and products that India needs, President Droupadi Murmu said on Monday. Addressing an award function here, Murmu said once the families start supporting the women, they will be able to contribute more in this area too as they

are already doing in other fields.

“I have noted that

there is only one woman recipient among the 13 national awar-

dees honoured here. All women use creativity daily in their household chores and in other areas also. It is time to encourage women to come up with innovative solutions and products that the country needs” she said at the 11th Biennial National Grassroots Innovation and Outstanding Traditional Knowledge Awards of the National Innovation Foundation.

Awards of NIF in New Delhi on Monday.

Visual of the violence in Chhattisgarh’s Bemetara district.

Shraddha Murder Court restrains media from publishing

Kashmir’s tourism will increase once Zojila Tunnel is built: Gadkari

Union Minister and J&K Lt Guv Sinha visit Zojila Tunnel to inspect ongoing work

Srinagar (ANI): Following the inspection of the ongoing work on the Zojila Tunnel, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday said that tourism will increase by 2-3 times with the construction of the tunnel.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha visited Zojila Tunnel to inspect the ongoing work. “With the construction of this tunnel, tourism will increase by 2-3 times and employment opportunities will also grow in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Gadkari.

“We will achieve connectivity between Kashmir to Kanniyakumari in the true sense,” he added. Gadkari in a tweet said that as many as 19 tunnels are being constructed in Jammu and Kashmir at a cost of Rs 25 thousand crore.

“19 tunnels are being constructed in Jammu and Kashmir at a cost of Rs 25 thousand crore. Under this, construction work of 13.14 km

long tunnel and approach road is in progress at Zojila at a cost of Rs 6800 crore. It is a 7.57 meter high horse-

HISTORIC LINK OF J&K WITH KANYAKUMARI: GADKARI

Zojila (PTI): Union Minister Nitin Gadkari while terming the tunnel historic, said the project is part of a dream to connect Kashmir valley with Kanyakumari. He also announced that the Z-Morh tunnel, which connects Gagangir with Sonamarg and provides all-weather connectivity to the resort in Ganderbal district of central Kashmir, will be inaugurated in October this year.

shoe-shaped single tube, 2-lane tunnel, which will pass under the Zojila Pass in the Himalayas between

Leave political spectacles behind while going abroad: VP

Ganderbal in Kashmir and Drass town in Kargil district of Ladakh. The project includes a Smart Tunnel (SCADA)

With the construction of this tunnel, there will be all-weather connectivity for Ladakh. Now average travel time to cross the Zojila Pass sometimes takes three hours, after the completion of this tunnel the travel time will come down to 20.0 minutes.

—Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister

system, constructed using the New Austrian Tunneling Method. It is equipped with facilities like CCTV, radio control, uninterrupted power supply, ventilation. The Government of India has also saved Rs 5000 crore by the use of modern technology in this project,” tweeted Gadkari in Hindi. The transport minister further said that with the construction of this tunnel, there will be all-weather connectivity for Ladakh.

MEA Secretary Sanjay Verma (R) meets with Emine Dzhaparova in New Delhi on Monday.

Emine Dzhaparova lauds Modi’s policy of democracy

New Delhi (ANI): PM Narendra Modi’s policy of democracy, dialogue and diversification and strategic application is very important for Ukraine, First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova said on Monday.

Dzhaparova, who arrived at the Ministry of External Affairs, said, “I think that India should be pragmatic in diversifying its energy resources, diversifying military contracts, in diversifying political interaction. And we feel that there is an extraordinary time that we live in. And as my President Philip Merzelinski says, extraor-

UKRAINE MINISTER INVITES INDIA TO JOIN PREZ ZELENSKYY’S PEACE PLAN

New Delhi: A top Ukraine official invited India to join Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s 10-point peace formula and grain initiative, saying that New Delhi should diversify its energy imports. Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova arrived in Delhi Monday on an official visit, which was also her maiden trip to India, and attended a meeting at the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). “Pleased to have a meeting with Secretary (West) MEA Sanjay Verma in New Delhi…Invited India to join President Zelenskyy’s Peace Formula and ‘Grain From Ukraine’ initiative (sic),” she said in a tweet.

dinary times need extraordinary decisions.

is really, really important.” “So we hope that India and Ukraine will be even though we are distant geographically, but we will become closer physically and politically and in many other ways.”

Make lotus bloom in civic body & LS polls: Yogi

UP TO SPEND `150 CR ON MARRIAGES OF OBC WOMEN

Speaking at a World Homeopathy Day function here, Dhankhar said as India lays the foundation for the centenary of its independence in 2047, every attempt that seeks to attack the country’s dignity should be blunted.

“Have you ever noticed a foreign dignitary or foreign national on a visit to this great democracy decrying or criticising his nation? The answer is an obvious no. Why cannot we take pride in our scientists, health warriors and compliment our innovation?” Dhankhar asked.

Whenever we travel out of the country, we should leave our political spectacles behind. This

VP Jagdeep Dhankhar with Sarbananda Sonowal at inauguration of the Scientific Convention in New Delhi, on Monday.

WORLD HOMOEOPATHY DAY: DHANKHAR INAUGURATES SCIENTIFIC CONVENTION

New Delhi: Every citizen must dedicate one hour of the day towards his/her own health, for healthy individuals are key to ensuring the progress of the nation. This was highlighted by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar during the inauguration of the Scientific Convention on World Homoepathy Day here on Monday. He noted that homoepathy, with its rich history spanning two centuries, is being nurtured in our country. “Homoeopathy is connected to nature, and the World Health Organisation has recognised it as the second largest and fastest growing system of medicine in the world,” he added.

will be beneficial for the country as well as the individual,” he added. His comments came in wake of Rahul’s remarks made in the UK,

that democratic parts of world, including the US, have failed to notice that a “large chunk of democracy has come undone” in India.

At a function, Yogi said, “The country under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi is

scaling new heights and has emerged as an ideal nation for the world where heritage is re-

spected, benefits of welfare schemes reach every poor and needy, and farmers, youth and

TN resolution urges Prez & Centre to fix timeframe for Guv to approve bills

Chennai (PTI): The Tamil Nadu Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution urging the Centre and President to fix a timeframe for State Governors to approve Bills adopted by the House, indicating increasing dissension between the DMK government and Governor R N Ravi.

Chief Minister MK Stalin who piloted the

NOD TO ANTI-ONLINE GAMBLING BILL

resolution fired sharp barbs at Ravi accusing him of being more faithful to the BJP leadership than the Constitution of India.

Chennai: Amid pressure piling up, Governor RN Ravi finally gave in and accorded his assent to the online gambling ban Bill. The governor’s decision came shortly after the state assembly passed a resolution demanding Centre’s intervention over the governor delaying giving his assent to the bills.

COUNTER TO RaGa’S `20,000 CR CLAIM

women are all empowered while there is foolproof internal and border security.”

Lucknow: The Yogi govt will spend Rs 150 crore to conduct the marriages of poor women belonging to OBC category. A govt spokesperson said that the government has issued instructions to all districts, stating that non-compliance with the prescribed rules will be treated as an irregularity. He said the govt has been allocating funds and providing grants for marriage of ‘OBC’ daughters.

RaGa to visit Wayanad, his former constituency, today

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit his former constituency Wayanad in Kerala on Tuesday, for the first time after his disqualification as a Mem-

ber of Parliament (MP). During his visit, he will address a public rally and hold a roadshow in Wayanad. Rahul Gandhi lost membership in the Lower House of Parliament after a Surat court convicted and sentenced him in a 2019 criminal defamation case.

Adani says USD 2.6 billion stake sale money came in group firms

lll Group issues rebuts reports in an international publication, which apparently was basis of Rahul Gandhi’s statement late last month

New Delhi (PTI): Bil-

lionaire Gautam Adani’s group on Monday listed out details of the USD 2.87 billion stake sales in group firms since 2019 and how USD 2.55 billion of this was ploughed back into business, as it looked to counter Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s claim of Rs 20,000 crore coming in to the conglomerate through ‘shell companies’.

While investors such as Abu Dhabi-based

global strategic investment company, International Holding Company PJSC (IHC) invested USD 2.593 billion in group firms such as

Adani Enterprise Ltd and Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL), promoters sold stake in Adani Total Gas Ltd and AGEL to raise USD

These funds were reinvested by promoter entities to support the growth of new business and in portfolio companies such as Adani Enterprises Ltd, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd, Adani Transmission Ltd and Adani Power Ltd.

—Adani Group’s statement

2.783 billion.

“These funds were reinvested by promoter entities to support the growth of new business and in portfolio compa-

nies such as Adani Enterprises Ltd, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd, Adani Transmission Ltd and Adani Power Ltd,” the

group said in an official statement.

The statement was issued rebutting reports in an international publication, which apparently was the basis of Gandhi’s statement late last month questioning how “Rs 20,000 crore suddenly arrived in Adani’s shell companies.”

“We understand the competitive race to tear down Adani can be alluring. But we are fully compliant with securi-

ties laws and are not obscuring promoter ownership and financing,” it said.

The Group said that promoters in January 2021 raised USD 2 billion through the sale of 20 per cent stake in renewable energy firm, AGEL to French giant TotalEnergies. Prior to that, they had sold a 37.4 per cent stake in city gas arm, Adani Total Gas Ltd to the same French firm for USD 783 million.

Nitin Gadkari and Manoj Sinha inspect the work at Zojila Tunnel on Monday. —PHOTO BY ANI

Gorakhpur (ANI): Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has said that triple engine government is a must for uninterrupted, rapid development of the state and prosperity of its people, appealing to people to start preparing the strategy for making lotus bloom in both municipal polls and the Lok Sabha elections, which will be held in 2024.

Yogi Adityanath and Bhupender Yadav at National Climate Conclave in Lucknow on Monday.

TN Guv RN Ravi & CM MK Stalin

New Delhi (PTI): Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday said people should leave their “political spectacles” behind while embarking on a foreign visit, in an apparent reference to a row over Rahul Gandhi’s remarks made during a recent visit to the UK.

New Delhi (ANI):

AAP gets national status; TMC, NCP lose tag

First India Bureau

New Delhi: The Election Commission on Monday recognised the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as a national party and withdrew the national party status of the All India Trinamul Congress, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI).

In an order issued on Monday, the Commission also revoked the state party status granted to RLD in Uttar Pradesh, BRS in Andhra Pradesh, PDA in Manipur, PMK in Puducherry, RSP in West Bengal and MPC in Mizoram.

The Commission said the AAP has been named as a national party based on its elec-

National party in such a short time? This is nothing less than a miracle. Many congratulations to all. Crores of people of the country have taken us here. People expect a lot from us. Today people have given us this huge responsibility. Lord, bless us to fulfill this responsibility well

toral performance in four states -- Delhi, Goa, Punjab and Guja-

rat. The Arvind Kejriwal-led party is in power in Delhi and Punjab.

RAMESH BAIS CALLS ON PM MODI

The poll panel said that the status of NCP, CPI and the Trinamul Congress as national political parties would be withdrawn. The BJP, Congress, CPI(M), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), National People’s Party (NPP) and the AAP are now national parties.

The Commission said that NCP and Trinamul Congress will be recognised as state parties in Nagaland and Meghalaya respectively based on their performance in the recently concluded assembly elections. It also granted “recognised state political party” status to the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) in Nagaland, Voice of the People Party in Meghalaya and the Tipra Motha in Tripura.

TRINAMOOL CONG EXPLORING LEGAL OPTIONS TO CHALLENGE EC DECISION

After losing the national party status, the Trinamool Congress is exploring legal options to challenge the decision of the Election Commission, a party source said on Monday. The EC withdrew the national party status of the TMC, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) earlier on Monday. "The party is exploring legal options to challenge this decision by EC," a TMC source said. The Mamata Banerjee-led party did not issue any official reaction.

WILL REACT AFTER READING EC ORDER: NATIONALIST CONG PARTY

The Nationalist Congress Party on Monday said it would react to the Election Commission stripping the Sharad Pawar-led outfit of its ‘national party’ status after receiving the order in written form. In separate orders issued during the day, the EC recognised Aam Aadmi Party as a national party while stripping NCP, Trinamool Congress and Communist Party of India of the coveted status. The NCP lost its state party status in Goa, Manipur and Meghalaya, as per the EC order.

3 CONDITIONS NEED TO BE MET IF A PARTY IS TO BE CALLED A "NATIONAL PARTY": EC

z A party’s candidates in a minimum of four states must get at least 6 per cent of the total votes polled in each of those states in the last national election. In addition to this, it should have won four seats in the Lok Sabha.

z A party should win a minimum of 2 per cent of the total seats in the Lok Sabha. The party’s candidates should have been elected from not less than 3 states. z A political party is recognised as a “state party” in at least four states.

Will form next govt in MP, Kamal Nath to be CM: Singh

“AZAD FALLS TO NEW DEPTHS TO DEMONSTRATE HIS TRUE CHARACTER”

New Delhi (ANI): Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Monday slammed former Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad and said that the latter falls to new depths with each passing day to demonstrate his true character and loyalty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

IN THE COURTYARD

NEED STRONG EVIDENCE TO CORROBORATE EXTRA-JUDICIAL CONFESSION, SAYS SC

New Delhi: Extra-judicial confession is a weak piece of evidence which requires strong evidence to corroborate it, the SC said while acquitting a man in a 2007 murder case. “Extra-judicial confession is a weak piece of evidence and especially when it has been retracted during trial. It requires strong evidence to corroborate it and also it must be established that it was completely voluntary and truthful. In view of discussion, we do not find any corroborating evidence to support extra judicial confession,” it said.

UMESH MURDER: AHMED MOVES SC SEEKING SECURITY

New Delhi: Former Samajwadi Party leader Atiq Ahmed moved the Supreme Court seeking its protection, claiming that he has been “roped in” as an accused in the Umesh Pal murder case and fears threat to his life. Lodged in the Central Jail, Ahmed has also sought directions to ensure that no physical or bodily injury or harm is done to him.

India denies reports of halting talks with UK over High Comm. attack

COURT UPHOLDS ACQUITTAL OF EXJAMIA REGISTRAR

New Delhi: A court has upheld the order of a magisterial court to acquit a former registrar of Jamia Hamdard University of the charges of sexual harassment, criminal intimidation and assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty. The woman filed an appeal in the superior sessions court against previous order in Dec 2021.

WORKING ON TENDER PROCESS TO SET UP CCTV CAMERAS: DELHI

POLICE TO HC

New Delhi: Delhi police filed a status report in the High court and said that they are working expeditiously on a tender for the installation of CCTV cameras in all police stations. It is also stated that the SC is monitoring this issue and has called for a report from all the State governments on the issue of the installation of CCTV cameras with a storage capacity of 18 months in police Stations. The HC directed Delhi police to comply with the order of the SC in relation to the installation of CCTV cameras in Police stations.

New Delhi (ANI): India dismissed as “baseless” reports in British media stating that it had halted talks for a free trade agreement with the United Kingdom over the attack on the Indian high commission in London last month, government sources said on Monday.

London-based newspaper in its April 10 edition citing senior British government sources reported that the Indian

government has “disengaged” from trade talks and made it clear that there would be no progress “without a public condemnation of the Khalistan movement.”

An Indian govt source “denied” the UK publication’s report and termed it as “baseless.”

Vidisha (PTI): Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Monday claimed the grand old party will form the next government in Madhya Pradesh by winning more than 116 of 230 seats and Kamal Nath will be the chief ministerial face.

The Assembly elections in MP are due later this year.

“We need 116 seats to form a government. We are going to get more than 116 seats. The party face will be Kamal Nath,” the Rajya Sabha member told media.

In a tweet, Jairam Ramesh said, “With every passing day, Ghulam Nabi Azad falls to new depths to demonstrate his true character and his loyalty to PM Modi. His contemptible statements on the Congress leadership reflect his desperation to remain relevant.”

PROUD OF BROTHER WHO FACES INJUSTICE WITH DIGNITY: PRIYANKA

New Delhi (ANI): In an affectionate social media post for #RahulGandhi on #SiblingsDay, #PriyankaGandhi on Monday said she is proud of her brother who faces injustice with dignity. She wrote: “So, there’s a Sibling’s Day too! Well, to my only sibling, who has the courage to stand for goodness and compassion despite all sorts of filth being thrown at him, who faces injustice with dignity, who won’t back down from speaking the truth no matter how many desert him or turn their knives in his back or how much power is used to silence him.”

4 die, 8 hurt in Kentucky bank shooting: Police

First India Bureau

Kentucky: Four people were killed and at least eight others injured Monday in a shooting targeting a bank in downtown Louisville, Kentucky, according to US police who said the suspect — believed to be an ex-employee — died in the assault. Police said calls had come in around 8:30 am (1230 GMT) for an “active aggressor” at the Old National Bank in Louisville, the largest

city in the southern state, and that officers were on the scene with-

Biden says he will run again in 2024

First India Bureau Washington: US President Joe Biden said on Monday he plans to run for re-election in 2024 but was not prepared to announce it yet. “I plan on running ... but we’re not prepared to announce it yet,” Biden said in an interview with NBC’s “Today” show before the White House Easter Egg Roll.

Biden has said he intends to be the Demo-

cratic candidate in 2024 but has not made a formal announcement.

Both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have said they will

run together.

Top White House advisers are set to make final decisions on launching Biden’s reelection campaign, NBC News reported, citing several unidentified sources.

“The decision part is over, but he resents the pressure to have to announce what he’s already decided,” one source familiar with the matter told NBC.

in “minutes.” Officers “encountered the suspect almost immediate-

ly, still firing gun shots,” police said.

Russia using ‘scorched earth’ tactics in battle

Moscow: Russian forces are pressing attacks in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, focusing on two cities and pounding Ukrainian positions with air strikes and artillery barrages, Kyiv said on Monday.

The commander of Ukraine’s ground forces said the Russians were destroying build-

ings and positions in besieged Bakhmut in what he called “scorched earth” tactics.

Russia’s assault on Bakhmut, a small city in Donetsk at the edge of a chunk of Russiancontrolled territory, has for months been the focus of the biggest battle of the war, now in its second year.

The shooting occured at the Old National Bank in Louisville, US on Monday.

Joe Biden

Priyanka Gandhi

Digvijaya Singh

Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais calls on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in New Delhi on Monday. This was the first meeting of the Governor with the Prime Minister since assuming the charge of the post of Governor. —PHOTO BY ANI

Arvind Kejriwal Sharad Pawar

—Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister, Delhi

KHERA: WRONG TO SAY GEHLOT GOVT NOT ACTING AGAINST CORRUPTION

Aditi Nagar

New Delhi: Reacting to Sachin Pilot’s allegation of inaction by Gehlot government over the corruption of previous BJP government, Congress media cell head Pawan Khera on Tuesday said that it is wrong to say that investigation is not being done.

“It is wrong to say that the investigation is not going on. Investigation is going on in the Sanjeevani scam against the senior leader of Rajasthan BJP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat,” he said. He said that investigation is also going on regarding the attempts to topple the Congress government in the state during the covid pandemic.

“Every aspect is being investigated. Which BJP leaders were involved in the conspiracy

Ramlal Jat attacks Pilot over his hunger strike

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Minister Ramlal Jat attacked Congress leader Sachin Pilot over his hunger strike saying that he had spoken on issue of discipline even before & those who contest elections as independents speak against their government after winning the elections. “It is the job of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to investigate corruption cases. Gehlot govt is working with clean hands and if there is any matter, it will be probed. The contenders for CM’s post should think that when Ashok Gehlot has been chosen by party high command, then where does any question arise now. Cong workers should think not to support such people. CM has presented an outstanding budget,” he said.

Every aspect is being investigated. Which BJP leaders were involved in the conspiracy to topple the government, where are their strings attached, it is being investigated. So it would not be right to say that investigation is not being done.

to topple the government, where are their strings attached, it is being investigated. So it would not be right to say that investigation is not being done,” he said.

Khera said that if anyone has any complaint, then he should talk to the general secretary incharge. He said that in the

case of Rajasthan, a statement has already been released from AICC and apart from that, it would not be appropriate to say anything. “Our Gen Secy in-charge is doing whatever discussion has to be done & is constantly in touch with the leaders of Rajasthan,” Pawan Khera added.

Pilot should fast against decision of Cong govt: Joshi

Jaipur: State BJP President CP Joshi on Monday, commented on the issue of the hunger strike of Congress leader Sachin Pilot and said that Pilot should fast against the decision of his government, which banned the hoisting of the saffron flag in Udaipur. “The voices of those who raise slogans of Lord Shri Ram are being suppressed. Sachin Pilot should also fast against the mining mafia and hooliganism flourishing during the tenure of the Rajasthan government,” said CP Joshi.

Pilot,

supporters to hold day-long hunger strike today

l The Congress MLA alleged that Chief Minister Gehlot failed to take any action on complaints of corruption against the Vasundhara Raje-led BJP government l Ministers and MLAs won’t join him in this move

First India Bureau

Jaipur: Former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot along with his supporters will observe a day-long fast at Shaheed Smarak today on the issue of not taking action on scams when Vasundhara Raje was the CM. However, ministers and MLAs will not be with him in his fast.

Pilot’s supporters from all over the state will reach Jaipur to join him. Pro-Pilot leaders and MLAs had given a message to the supporters to reach Jaipur.

Sandeep Singh Choudhary @sandeepinc

Pilot should have spoken to Randhawa, Kharge instead of staging a Dharna. Our leader Rahul Gandhi’s campaign against the corruption of the central goverment would have been strengthened. Pilot’s Dharna is on the instigation of Congress opponents.

Sachin Pilot took to Twitter sharing a picture of himself hugging a local resident and saying, “MannmeinKhushi,Chehrepar muskaan,HarDilmeinbastayahan,Rajasthankaswabhimaan,” before addressing the press conference to announce his hunger strike at his Civil Lines residence in Jaipur on Monday.

After the announcement of Pilot’s fast, politics is on the boil in Congress. The Party’s State in-charge Sukhjinder Randhawa will be in Jaipur today for damage control. Randhawa will meet CM Ashok Gehlot and Congress State President Govind Singh Dotasra during his visit.

Saraf attacks Pilot over his allegations against Raje govt

Jaipur: Malviya Nagar MLA Kali Charan Saraf attacked Congress leader Sachin Pilot saying that Congress Govt isn’t making Pilot the CM of Raj so he is levelling allegations on Raje govt. “In 2003, Sachin’s mother Rama Pilot was badly defeated by Vasundhara ji from Jhalrapatan. The restlessness of that defeat is reflected in his allegations. CM Gehlot formed Mathur Commission to probe cases against Vasundhara ji. An inquiry was also conducted by the Lok Ayukta, but nothing came out of it,” Saraf said.

Why Pilot didn’t speak Cong govt’s corruption, asks Rathore

Jaipur: Saying that dragging the tenure of former CM is politically motivated, LoP Rajendra Rathore on Monday asked why Congress leader Sachin Pilot did not

speak on the corruption of the present government.

He said that Sachin Pilot broke silence after a long time but why he did not speak on the corruption of the Congress government?

Rathore said that

Vande Bharat Train’s inaugural run will be between Jaipur & Delhi Cant

First India Bureau

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off Rajasthan’s first Vande Bharat Express train on 12 April, 2023 at 11 AM via video conferencing.

“The regular service of this Vande Bharat Express will start from April 13, 2023 and will operate between Ajmer and Delhi Cantt., with stops at Jaipur, Alwar and Gurgaon,” it added. The new Vande Bharat Express will cover the distance between Delhi Cantt. and Ajmer in 5 hours 15 minutes. The present

fastest train in the same route, Shatabdi Express, takes 6 hours 15 minutes from Delhi Cantt. to Ajmer. Thus, the new Vande Bharat Express will be faster by 60 minutes as compared to the present fastest train running on

the same route.

“Ajmer-Delhi Cantt. Vande Bharat Express will be the world’s first semi high speed passenger train on high rise overhead electric (OHE) territory,” the PMO said. The train will im-

prove connectivity of major tourist destinations in Rajasthan including Pushkar, Ajmer Sharif Dargah etc. Enhanced connectivity will also provide a boost to socio-economic development in the region, it added.

questions have been raised on the government, from coal purchase to scam in the child development’ department but Pilot did not speak on them.

“Why didn’t Sachin speak at the assembly?” he asked.

First India Bureau

Jaipur: AICC in-charge of State Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa late on Monday night, issued an statement saying that Sachin Pilot’s day-long fast today is against the party interests and is anti-party activity. If there is any issue with his own government, it can be discussed in the party forums instead of in the media and public . I have been an AICC incharge for the last 5 months and Pilot-ji has never discussed this issue with me. I am in touch with him and I still appeal for calm dialogue since he is an indisputable asset to the Congress party. Randhawa said that it was

“not appropriate” for Pilot to hold a press conference in this manner and that he should have raised the issue with him first.

In a statement given to a newspaper, Randhawa said- “Even I have not become the Chief Minister, it does not mean that the party should be left.”

He said that when Pilot was the Deputy CM, why did not he raise this issue that time.

He said that when the crisis is going on in the Congress and Rahul Gandhi is raising his voice against the corruption of Centre, Pilot shouldn’t have done this at such a time because this would divert attention from issues raised by Gandhi.

Rahul, Priyanka may intervene to resolve the Rajasthan issue!

Owing to Pilot’s ‘anshan’, damage control efforts have intensified in Cong

Aditi Nagar

New Delhi: Is there another aspect of the Gehlot-Pilot episode? According to political observers, in the current situation, there is a high possibility of Pilot leaving the party eventually. On the other hand, Pilot has repeatedly denied the possibility of joining BJP. Howver, there is talk of a possible alliance. In such a situation, if Pilot really leaves the party, then only Gehlot will distribute all the 200 tickets. According to sources, a top leader from Delhi can talk to Pilot. But now after be-

ing fed up with new assurances from the high command, Pilot has ‘gone a long way’ and the pressure is increasing on Pilot himself to take a final decision.

According to a source, the high command may propose to Gehlot to make Pilot the PCC chief, but the Gehlot camp is not ready to agree to it.

Meanwhile, owing to Sachin Pilot’s ‘anshan’, the damage control efforts in Congress have intensified and a section of Congress lead -

ers made efforts to persuade Pilot by holding discussions. Organization General Secretary KC Venugopal may play the role as the high command’s focus is Karnataka elections. AICC Chief Mallikarjun Kharge himself is from Karnataka and the assembly election is a litmus test for him after becoming Congress National President. However, to solve Rajasthan issue, both Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will have to interfere!

23rd conservation reserve in Raj notified by govt Raj govt declares birth anniv of Jyotiba Phule public holiday

First India Bureau

Jaipur: State govt on Monday issued a notification for the 23rd conservation reserve of Rajasthan. The government notified Kharmor (Arwad, Ajmer) as the 23rd Conservation Reserve of the state. Officials informed that six more conservation reserves will be notified soon. Forest Dept issued a notification in this regard and now there are 23 conservation reserves in the state. Pullhan (Jodhpur), Baleshwar (Sikar), Fatehpur (Sikar), (Desuri Narlai) Rajsamand, Banjh Amli (Baran) & Barmer will be notified as conservation reserves soon.

First India Bureau

Jaipur: The Rajasthan government has declared April 11, the birth anniversary of social reformer Jyotiba Phule, a public holiday.

With this, the state has 30 public holidays and 20 optional holidays. Till now, Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jayanti was an optional holiday in the state.

According to an official statement, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has approved a proposal in this regard. The decision has been taken keeping in mind the common man’s feelings and the demand of people’s representatives, it said.

Women and Child Development Minister Mamta Bhupesh, Rashtriya Phule Brigade Team Rajasthan and various social organizations and people’s representatives had demanded that Mahatma

Jyotiba Phule Jayanti be declared a public holiday. Jyotiba Phule played an important role in eradicating untouchability and empowering society. Earlier, the state government changed Lord Shri Devnarayan Jayanti from optional to public holiday.

In the meanwhile, a seminar will be organised during the state level felicitation ceremony at Vidhyadhar Nagar Rashtriya Sansthan in Jaipur today wherein, CM Ashok Gehlot will also be present, informed District President of Women’s Wing of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Sansthan, Renu Saini.

If anyone has any complaint, then he should talk to the General Secretary in-charge, Khera says

his

Sukjinder Randhawa: Pilot’s day-long fast is an anti-party activity

RANDHAWA TO MEET CM GEHLOT TODAY

——Pawan Khera, Congress Media Cell Head

First India Bureau

Rahul Gandhi

Priyanka Gandhi

Birla distributes nutrition kits to pregnant women

OM BIRLA MEETS FAMILY MEMBERS OF YOUTHS KILLED IN ELECTROCUTION

Kota: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday reached Digod sub-division of Kota district to express grief over the death of three youths, who died of electrocution a few days back. The speaker reached Barod village and consoled the families of the deceased and inquire about the well-being of the injured. Patan MLA Chandrakanta Meghwal, Etawah Nagar Palika Chairman Rajni Soni, and other BJP leaders also accompanied Om Birla during his visit. The speaker also assured all possible help for the families of the deceased.

MLA Ashok Dogra and Chandrakanta

Meghwal were also present at occasion

Bhawani S Hada

Bundi: Lok Sabha

Speaker Om Birla during his tour in Bundi on Monday distributed

nutrition kits to pregnant women under the Suposhit Maa Abhiyan campaign. Apart from this, he said that their health check-up was also done.

MLA Ashok Dogra and Chandrakanta

Meghwal were also present at the occasion.

Birla was received by BJP workers and ad-

Hindaun city: Markets closed due to protest

First India Bureau

Hindaun: The markets of Hindaun city remained closed on Monday owing to a protest of people demanding to declare it a district.

The protestors demanded that Hindaun should be made a district, whereas Surauth, & Shri Mahavirji should be given munici-

Dalit girl allegedly gang-raped in Churu

First India Bureau

Churu: A Dalit girl was allegedly gang raped in the Churu district of Rajasthan. The victim was returning from a wedding function when two accused abducted her and gang raped her.

After the incident, the victim reached the local police station and registered a case against Subhash Jat, a resident of Khariya village, and another accused.

A medical examination of the victim was done today and it was informed that Dy SP Himanshu Sharma will investigate the case.

pal status and Mhow should be made a tehsil.

People from various social organisations, local leaders, and officials of trade unions participate in the protest. The protesters also submitted a memorandum to Pradhan of Panchayat

Samiti Vinod Kumar Jatav. The locals had to face problems due to the closure of the markets.

ministrative officials upon reaching the circuit house.

Birla also inspected the ambulances present there and informed them about the health check-up being done from village to village. He said that people can avail the treatment in Jaipur and Delhi as well.

CS takes meeting of officials over implementation of schemes

Dr

Rituraj Sharma

Jaipur: Chief Secretary Usha Sharma on Monday took a meeting of all collectors and divisional commissioners through video conferencing and directed to add a maximum number of eligible persons to the inflation relief camp to be organized from April 24 to June 30. The state government will organise these camps along with the Prashasan Gaon and Shahron Ke Sang Abhiyan to inform about public welfare schemes and then link people to such schemes

as per their eligibility.

The CS also gave a slew of directions to the IAS officials during the meeting. Matters like land allocation cases related to budget an-

nouncements, Udaan scheme, the Amma program, strengthening and electrification of Anganwadi centres, and many other scheme were also discussed.

‘Rajasthani should be official language of state’

First India Bureau

Jodhpur: RANA President Prem Bhandari on Monday said that the youth of the state has woken up and awareness has arisen regarding Mayad language. He said that the Rajasthani language should be given the status of the official language of Rajasthan.

Bhandari said that centre and state governments have only

worked to turn the tables and did not make any efforts to get language recognition but

Raj Domestic Travel Mart to take place from Jul 14 to 16

Jaipur: The third edition of Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM) will be organized from 14 July to 16. This year, the theme of the travel mart is ‘Sustainable Tourism’.

Principal Secretary

(Tourism) Gayatri Rathore informed that the roadshow for the launch of RDTM will be held in Jaipur on May 9.

The principal secretary also met a delegation of the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism in

Rajasthan (FHTR) at the Secretariat on Monday. FHTR President Apoorva Kumar said that considering the success of the previous travel marts, there is huge enthusiasm in the travel fraternity for the upcoming tourist season. He also said that the increase in the promotional budget of 1500 crores and including the recent budget announcements would give a boost to the tourism sector.

now the youth has woken up. “Till now, the governments have only given assurances

in the name of recognition to the Rajasthani language. Neither Congress nor BJP took the issue of honour of this state seriously,” he said.

Bhandari said that if the governments did not pay heed, then he, Gaj Singh and Ravindra Singh Bhati will go to villages and will tell the people of the state that the governments are doing injustice to our young generation.

Bhupendra Saran arrested in constable paper leak case

Jaipur: The SOG on Monday arrested Bhupendra Saran, an accused in Constable Recruitment Exam 2022, on a production warrant. Saran, who is already facing charges for leaking the paper of a teacher recruitment exam, was brought from Ajmer high-security jail and was produced in court on Monday after he was summoned on a pro-

duction warrant. ADJ Satish Chand Godara handed him over to SOG for investigation. Now, the SOG will take him on remand on Tuesday. Notably, the constable recruitment exam paper was leaked on May 14, 2022, from Diwakar Public School in Jhotwara. Nearly 23 people have been arrested in the paper leak case so far.

Chief Secretary Usha Sharma and Principal Secretary TAD Alok Gupta during a meeting with collectors and divisional commissioners via video conferencing on Monday.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla with the family members of the three youths, who died of electrocution in Digod, subdivision of Kota district on Monday.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla during the Suposhit Maa Abhiyan campaign in Bundi on Monday.

Gaj Singh, Prem Bhandari and Ravindra Singh Bhati at Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur on Monday.

Shops were seen closed in Hindaun city on Monday.

Courageous people do not bow down to the fear, it is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to walk through it that makes them courageous.

—Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO & Editor-in-Chief, First India

There may be a hung assembly in Karnataka with high chances of BJP forming the govt: Dr Chandra

z What are the basic equations and salient features of the Karnataka Assembly elections?

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra:

Basic equation is that there are 5.20 crore voters, 58, 0000 booths, 244 seats, the votes will be cast on May 10th and counting will be held on May 13th. Second aspect here is that most of the times, no political party has come with a complete majority here. The norm here has been of ‘Hung Assembly.’ It now remains to be seen whether this time around also there is a ‘Hung Assembly’ or will there be a clear majority.

z BJP is stressing that it will form government for the third time. Do you think it will be so and instead of a ‘Hung Assembly,’ there will be a clear majority government this time around?

See, the ground realities that exist today in Bengaluru, according to that, BJP appears to be the single largest party post elections. The party will definitely form government as the single largest party and the Raj Bhawan will invite the BJP to form government and it will have to prove its majority within a week’s time and then elected representatives will connect with it. So, BJP will form government. As far as a clear majority is concerned, that remains to be seen.

PM Modi’s tours will start now and what situations emerge post those tours remains to be seen, but as of today, in the current situation, there will be a ‘Hung Assembly,’ with BJP being the single largest party with around 90 elected MLAs.

As far as forming the government is concerned, the odds are in BJP’s favour.

z So does that mean that instead of local ‘kshtraps,’ the assembly polls will be contested on PM Modi’s face?

Definitely. This party has just one face and only one face, Narendra Modi, and only one ‘Chanakya,’ Amit Shah. Thus, the election will be fought on Modi’s face. he is the only leader, who can be termed a Prime Minister in all aspects of the term. He is a one man army, who changes the equation immediately upon his arrival. Among the kshatraps, there is internal squabble and feud, and more so there is no local face that can be presented before the public as the

leader from state because of these internal feuds. So, definitely the election will be fought on Modi’s face and it is because of Modi that the party is even hoping to come back to power.

z What do you think will be the pressing issues in these elections?

Election issues are same. These days there are two main issues. Earlier, it only used to be Hindutva. But now development has also become an issue. I believe that Hindutva and development will be BJP’s main key issues and other parties will have their own political and electoral issues, which can be understood from their manifesto.

z So will the new reservation policy become a ‘game changer’ in these elections?

It could be so. This is a masterstroke and the demand for this has been going on for several years. The two leading castes of the state had been demanding this, plus the Muslim reservation has been ended. So, it could be a game changer and BJP has high hopes from this move and even election strategists also believe that this masterstroke can be a game changer.

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra, CEO and

Editor-in-Chief of Bharat24-Vision of New India and First India;

CMD First India News, throws light on the upcoming Karnataka elections and how BJP is in a driving position going into the polls, how the election would be contested on PM Modi’s face and not on any local leader, how Congress’ OPS is giving a head-on competition to BJP’s reservation to Vokkaliga and Lingayat communities and how Congress is trying to woo the Muslim voters through its ‘messaging’ of bringing back the Muslim reservation. Excerpts... (Part-I)

has been conveyed to the Muslim voters, so this move will definitely have an impact on voters and BJP has also played its masterstroke through which Hindutva has been strengthened and polarisation of electorate will happen. So, both the parties have played their masterstrokes.

z So does this mean that with the new reservation policy, BJP has become favourites with Lingayat and Vokkaliga voters?

Yes, BJP has become favourites. However, this is not the only reason, rather one of the reasons. The demand was being made for over three decades and the BJP government accepted it. Besides this, both the commu-

z But the Congress has also said that if it wins the election, it will bring back the Muslim reservation.

What effect will this announcement have on Muslim voters?

It will surely have an effect on Muslim voters as this announcement is like a ray of hope for them as they believe that there is someone who is saying something in their favour. So Muslims, who engage in silent, one sided voting for Congress, will be further motivated to vote in Congress’ favour. Moreover, Congress will not declare this move openly because of the ‘Hindutva factor’ and there is a fear of Hindu voter. But silently this message

z Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that election is a war. What does that mean?

This means that election is actually a war and should be fought like a war, and there is no mercy in war. So, don’t be merciful, fight the opponents, decimate them and come back victorious. He has given this slogan to motivate the party workers.

z Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot’s OPS turned the tide of Himachal Pradesh elections. Do you think OPS will play a role in Karnataka elections also? 100 % it will be play a role and even the BJP accepts that. The BJP government has formed a five member

and its impact and to give its report by April 30. That Committee will visit Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand and other states. It was definitely a masterstroke of Ashok Gehlot in Rajasthan and hence, Gehlot is being called up repeatedly from Karnataka and even AICC is asking Gehlot to tour the state. He has been in-charge of Rajya Sabha election in Karnataka in the past and soon he will come here. His face in Karnataka will prove to be credible that he has made the scheme applicable in Rajasthan and it is not only an assurance. Thus with him, he will bring a credibility for the party

also. So, OPS issue is a serious issue.

z So does that mean that BJP’s reservation ploy and Congress’ OPS will be at loggerheads? Yes, these two are at loggerheads on equally powerful issues. It is difficult to fathom which is more dominant issue as both have their own powerful aspects. Only the election result will prove which issue has played out in the best interest of which party.

z If Congress comes to power in Karnataka, who will be the top candidate for Chief Minister’s post? See, there are self- styled claimants and then there are those, who are nominated by the party and the high command.

Now, since the Congress high command is kind of defunct and local are having a field day in the party these days. It is not like Narendra Modi and Amit Shah that their word would be the final in the party and the

Chief Minister would be sworn in on just their word. In Congress, the situation is different. As far as claimant for CM’s chair are concerned, then DK Shivakumar is the one. He says that Siddharamaiah has been CM in the past and now it is his turn since he is party’s president in Karnataka and has ED cases to his name. Further, he is running the party for which he is getting money too. He is also renovating the party office at his own expense. And then he represents a dominating caste also. On the other side is Siddharamaiah, who says that this is his life’s last election and that he will not contest elections after this and has thus made claim to the chair. Then the third claimant to the CM’s chair from Congress, who is silent on all these developments, is national President of the Party, Mallikarjun Kharge.

Thrice a chance came before him, but he was never made the Chief Minister owing to internal struggles in the party. He has won elections eight times and if given a chance, he will leave his post as Party President in New Delhi and come here to take oath as CM with both the other leaders as his deputy CM. But the possibility of such development is extremely low. The highest possibility is between Siddharamaiah and Shivakumar.

I believe that Shivakumar can become CM.

z But does this mean that if BJP comes to power, Bommai will be repeated as CM or

will Modi-Shah bring a new face?

Only Modi and Shah can reveal who will be BJP’s Chief Minister, because they are the only two individuals in the party who know everything. I have said it earlier also, in Gujarat, the CM was chosen at eleventh hour and when the envelope was opened the name was revealed then. In Uttarakhand, when JP Nadda went, the envelope was opened ten minutes before the announcement and that is when it was learnt who the CM would be. But this is assured that if according to the ground realities Modi and Shah cut 75 percent of the tickets, and distribute tickets according to their own decisions without getting affected by any local player, then envelope will be opened for CM. But if only 25 percent tickets are cut and the local pressurising politics, as is being played right now, goes on, which the BJP leaders are tolerating anyhow, so the appointment of CM will depend on several factors. But apparently, there is no problem if Bommai continues since he is popular, doesn’t have any allegation, isn’t corrupt. There was a minor issue related to corruption few days back, but otherwise, he is an obedient CM. So, who will be BJP’s CM, only those two individuals know or the horoscope of the person who will be CM, knows. TO BE CONTINUED…

During the show #JConKarnatakaElection trended top All-India on Twitter

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra in conversation with Poornima Mishra, Aditi Nagar, Pooja Yadav, Amit Mishra, Shashikant Sharma and Astha Khandelwal during The JC Show at the Taj West End in Bengaluru.

Dr Jagdeesh Chandra during The JC Show.

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FFEE C A Way to Reduce Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes Risk

loss.

HIGHLIGHTS :

◆ Drinking 3-5 cups of coffee a day, a rich source of caffeine is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease

◆ Higher genetically predicted blood caffeine levels were found to be connected with reduced BMI, body fat, and lower risk of type 2 diabetes

ARIES

MAR 21 - APR 20

Happiness in the domestic sphere will only come with a changed mind set. Some of you are likely to become a part of an overseas official trip. Better to consult an expert in financial matters before making an investment. Harsh words may create a rift in your romantic relationship; be careful.

TAURUS

APR 21 - MAY 20

Despite hectic and tiring schedule you will manage to find time for family anf friends. Seek the opinion of your family before finalizing a property deal. Your bold initiatives on romantic front bring back passion and spark in romantic relationship.Overall health remains fine.

GEMINI

Ahigh blood caffeine level may reduce the amount of body fat a person carries and their risk of type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in the open-access journal BMJ Medicine.

POTENTIAL IMPACT OF CALORIE-FREE CAFFEINATED DRINKS

The potential impact of calorie-free caffeinated drinks in lowering the risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes is now worth investigating. According to previous studies, drinking 3-5 cups of coffee per day, a rich source of caffeine, is connected with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, write the researchers. A typical cup of coffee has 70-150 mg of caffeine.

However, the majority of published research so far has included observational studies, which cannot reliably prove causal effects due to the other potentially relevant elements involved, according to the researchers.

Furthermore, they say it's difficult to separate any specific effects of caffeine from the other substances found in caffeinated drinks and meals.

USING MENDELIAN RANDOMIZATION TO DETERMINE THE IMPACT OF CAFFEINE

To address these concerns, the researchers utilized Mendelian randomization to determine the impact of greater blood caffeine levels on body fat and the longterm risks of type 2 diabetes and severe cardiovascular illnesses

LIBRA

SEPT 24 - OCTOBER 22

Despite hectic schedule you will manage to find time for family. Seek the opinion of your family before finalizing a property deal. Your bold initiatives on romantic front bring back passion and spark in romantic relationship. Overall health remains fine. Don’t stress over small things.

SCORPIO

OCT 23 - NOVEMBER 22

A person who has been around you for a long time but whom you have never really noticed will now begin to play a pivotal role in your mind. It is not just a budding romance. Rather, it is a meeting of mind and spirit that is likely to leave you feeling overwhelmed. Take time to get used to the idea.

SAGITTARIUS

◆ Caffeine stimulates metabolism, promotes fat burning, and reduces appetite, which can potentially lower the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes

Weight loss was found to be responsible for nearly half (43%) of the effect of coffee on type 2 diabetes risk.

There were no significant relationships found between genetically predicted blood caffeine levels and the risk of any of the cardiovascular disease outcomes evaluated.

The researchers acknowledge that their findings had limitations, such as the use of only two genetic variations and the inclusion of only people of European heritage.

Caffeine, on the other hand, is known to stimulate metabolism, and reduce appetite, they explain. A daily dose of 100 mg has been projected to boost energy expenditure by roughly 100 calories per day, potentially lowering the risk of becoming obese.

"Our Mendelian randomization finding suggests that caffeine might, at least in part, explain the inverse association between coffee consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes," write the researchers.

"Randomized controlled trials are warranted to assess whether non-caloric caffeine-containing beverages might play a role in reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes," they conclude.

disease, stroke, heart failure, and irregular heart rhythm, atrial fibrillation).

Individuals who have genetic variations associated with slower caffeine metabolism drink less coffee on average but have higher amounts of caffeine in their blood than people who metabolize it rapidly enough to achieve or maintain the levels required for its stimulating effects.

CAFFEINE'S POSITIVE EFFECT ON METABOLISM AND FAT BURNING

The study's findings revealed that greater genetically predicted blood caffeine levels were connected with reduced body mass index (BMI) and body fat.

next employed Mendelian randomization to investigate whether any effect of coffee on type 2 diabetes risk was primarily driven by concurrent weight

Source: https://www.medindia.net/news/healthwatch/sip-coffee-shed-pounds-a-brew-tiful-way-to-reduce-obesity-and-type-2-diabetes-risk-211008-1.htm

MAY 21 - JUNE 21

You will succeed in resolving misjudgment with family members, normalizing ties. Despite your misgivings, you retain good health. You will do much to bring peace and harmony at home. You will remain much in demand on social front. Some of you can get romantically involved.

CANCER

JUNE 22 - JULY 23

A friend or colleague may motivate you to take up a healthy activity. Parents may appear more than happy with what you deliver. Plans for overseas travel are likely to materialise. You are likely to get clearance or approval for your construction plans. You find things moving in the way you want them.

LEO

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

Gifting something to your beloved is likely to make the day memorable. Matrimonial match for siblings will bring happiness anf joy for entire family. You will get a good price for your property. Those awaiting results are assured of succeeding with flying colours.

VIRGO

AUG 24 - SEP 23

Using your initiative at work will be much appreciated. You may get a chance to pursue old hobby. Health tips from an expert will enable you to get closer to your fitness goals. Your generous behavior would enable to enjoy some lovely moments with family. Do not overethink.

YOUR DAY

Horoscope by Saurabbh Sachdeva

NOV 23 - DEC 22

Your intuition will save you from a tricky spot today. Yoga would help in raising energy levels and improve your metabolism. You will manage to achieve your aim through travel. This is a great time on the academic front, when you mange to render your best. Take time out for your family.

CAPRICORN

DEC 23 - JAN 20

Family will be most supportive, when it really matters for you. Some of you may add to your list of properties by booking a new one. It is good day to confess your love as stars appear favourable for positive reply. A long drive is likely to help you get over mental tiredness.

AQUARIUS

JAN 21 - FEB 19

Avoid raising controversial issues at home to maintain harmony. Successful implementation of new ideas and projects would add to your prestige on the professional front. It is a wonderful day to build new connections. Your relationship requires you to be tactful.

PISCES

FEB20 - MARCH 20

Distant relatives may drop in for a surprise visit. On professional front, recognition for good work would motivate you to work harder. Those awaiting an affirmation on romantic front are likely to get lucky today, as partner responds positively. You will feel less stressed today.

RIA JAITLEY, Artist

DR TRUPTI SHIROLE cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

A

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Lisa Breaks Records

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Rhea as a gang leader

ing the upcoming seasons as gang leaders.

The makers of Roadies 19 dropped a new video on MTV India's official Instagram handle and revealed the identity of another gang leader. After Prince Narula and Gautam Gulati, actress Rhea Chakraborty has turned a gang leader in Roadies: Karm Ya Kaand. In the video, we see Rhea says, "Aapko kya laga mei vaapis nahi aaungi? Darr jaungi? Darne ki baari kisi aur ki hai. Milte hai auditions pe." The caption of this video read, "Sambhal ke rehna hai ya darr ke? Jo bhi ho ignore nahi kar paoge! Get ready for the auditions of MTV RoadiesKarm Ya Kaand."

Selena at the Rare Beauty event

elena Gomez followed in the footsteps of Jennifer Aniston and Angelina Jolie by stepping out in an allblack ensemble, proving that the all-black color palette never gets old! The 30-yearold Only Murders in the Building actress was snapped leaving a Rare Beauty event in New York on March 29, and we are obsessed with her look from top to toe! The Rare Beau-ty founder pulled out all the stops for her event, looking chic, classy and totally glamorous in a long black Mango faux fur coat complete with statement gold buttons, as well as a simple black off-the-shoulder Alexander Wang boyfriend shirt and some relaxed Proenza Schouler pleated pants. She finished off with some black Paris Texas Lidia pointed-toe slingback pumps, and a black and gold Delvaux top handle bag.

Rhea Chakraborty

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Bollywood Night

Theme parties

help bring lots of colour and vibrancy to any celebration.

With Rajasthan growing as a more appealing tourist destination, its cultures, history and traditions are now much more understood and provide an exciting chance for people to explore, dress up, dance to Bollywood dance music, eat Indianinspired cuisine and the right platform to showcase talent.

Spirits were high at the Bollywood Theme Party, hosted by Eldorado and 9Planets Entertainment, where the top 35 finalists of Miss Teen Diva, 2023, an international-level beauty pageant along with Nikhil Anand, National Director and Chairman of Glamanad Group, came together to celebrate the successful journey so

THE VANITY FAIR!

—PHOTOS BY MUKESH KIRADOO

GRAND POLO!

far and boost the morale of the participants before the grand finale, to be held on April 13 at Zee Studios, Jaipur. The evening took place at El Dorado, Jaipur where besides the gorgeous 35 finalists, 5 previous title holders, namely, Man-

nat Siwach, Rabia Hora, Mahika Biyani, Aishwarya Vinu Nair and Cherisha Chanda also rolled out the signature red carpet. Jagdeesh Chandra graced the evening as the Chief Guest and congratulated all the participants

for reaching the grand finale. He also wished Nikhil Anand along with the ravishing participants to put their best foot forward for the big day on Wednesday, while the highly anticipated arrivals never seemed to end.

Set in an indoor-out-

door space dressed in crushed velvet walls, the party felt like an Old Hollywood smoking room turned swanky soirée under the moon light. Gaurav Gaur, Di rector Elite Miss Ra jasthan was also pre sent on the occasion. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

The commencement of a seven-day national symposium on metal sculptures in Jaipur took place on Monday. The symposium was inaugurated by Rajendra Singh Rathore, Leader of the Opposition of Rajasthan. The event is being organised by the Works for Artists Foundation and coordinated by the famous artist Rajkumar Pandit. Eight renowned artists from different parts of India, including Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha, and New Delhi, are participating in the symposium. The artists will create their preferred metal sculptures until April 16, which will be later placed in the Works for Artists Foundation for public display. The purpose of the symposium is to motivate students interested in art and culture in India and abroad. The foundation plans to conduct such symposiums periodically and provide free training to students to improve their skills in this field.

30TH ANNIVERSARY

TOWARDS NEW DIRECTION

CITY FIRST

While addressing the Punjabi Khatri Society’s Vaishakhi festival and awards ceremony organised at the Arora Mahavar Auditorium, Alwar on Sunday, Rajiv Arora, Chairman Raj Small Industries Corporation said that considering the numerical strength of Khatri Punjabis in the state, a Punjabi Welfare Board

should be constituted so that the way for their welfare can be paved. For this, the MLAs and ministers will be asked to write desires in every district of the

entire state. A complete action plan is being prepared to get the MLAs sitting in the opposition and the representatives of other parties to put this demand in the election manifesto.

Arora said that the number of Khatri Punjabis in Rajasthan is in crores but they have not been given a share in the rule accordingly. In view of this, a campaign will be launched in the entire state. The Punjabi Khatri community has always worked in the interest of the country in the fight for self-respect. cityfirst@firstindia.co.in

All set to spread glitter and glamour around, the three days long Ms VogueStar India and Mrs Voguestar India 2023 event began at Le Meridian Hotel, Jaipur. VogueStar, an inclusive platform of the women and by the women supporting them create their distinctive identities,

occasion of JKK’s 30th anniversary, a three-day

RRPCC (Rajasthan Riding and Polo Club) has started a junior tournament to promote polo among children. Four teams are playing in the Prima Bissa Memorial Junior Polo Cup, in which 15 young polo players from Gulabi Nagar are participating, to mark the same a Press Conference was organised in the Spice Court on Monday. While interacting with the media, DP Singh, director of RRPCC said that the tournament has been started to promote new children in polo. He said that there is no tournament at the junior level other than the Indian Polo Association tournament, and new children will be associated with polo through this tournament. He explained that the tournament will be played in a three-a-side format, with two boys and one girl on each team.

Sustainable Tourism

CITY FIRST

The 3rd edition of the Rajasthan Domestic Travel Mart (RDTM) will be held in Jaipur from July 14 to 16. This year the theme of RDTM will be ‘Sustainable Tourism’. Discussions on topics related to ‘Sustainable Tourism’ will also be held during the knowledge sessions organised at the event. This was informed by the Principal Secretary Tourism,

Gayatri Rathore in a meeting. She was meeting the delegation of the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism (FHTR) on Monday at the Secretariat. The FHTR delegation was led by its President, Apurv Kumar.

Principal Secretary further informed that the first roadshow pertaining to the buildup of the RDTM will be held in Jaipur on May 9.

Apurv Kumar said that looking at the success of the last RDTM,

the travel fraternity was in high spirits for the forthcoming tourist season. Also present on the occasion were, Director, Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Rashmi Sharma; Tourism, Joint Director, Sumita Saroch; President, Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA), Randhir Vikram Singh; Vice President, FHTR, Khalid Khan; Secretary, FHTR, Mohan Singh; Treasurer, Tarun Bansal and others.

EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT!

Jagdeesh Chandra was greeted by Chhavi Suledia, as she reached the former’s residence to seek blessings on the occasion of her birthday on Monday. Chhavi Suledia is the sister supermodel Riya Suledia.

On the

establishment day celebration was held at the JKK on Monday. Art enthusiasts played an important role in this three-day event, and people of all age groups were present. Children between the ages of 2 and 8 participated in large numbers in the story-telling workshop, while visitors learned to make clay art in the Molela pottery workshop.

is organizing the all-India fashion week cum beauty pageant. The extravaganza of fashion is witnessing state level winners competing and adorning designer masterpieces. Divided into two categories, the pageant will crown three national winners under Miss VogueStar India and Mrs VogueStar India on April 16.

The Education Conclave 2023, presented by First India News, Bharat24Vision of New India, and Manipal University Jaipur was organised at Hotel Marriott, Jaipur on April 7.

exceptional event.

(L-R) Kanggana Malik, Trishna Ray, Palak Jain, Mannat Siwach, Rabia Hora, Mahika Biyani, Cherisha Chanda, Aishwarya Vinu Nair, Meher Kumar, Anwita Sundaram and Daniella Shirley Majau

(R-L) Shreya, Urvashi Soni, Gaurav Gaur, Priya Agarwal Kalpana Gupta, Yoshita Arora and Vinita Soni Nikhil Anand

Cherisha Chanda

Apurv Kumar greets Gayatri Rathore. Also seen are (L-R) Sumita Saroch, Rashmi Sharma, Mohan Singh, Tarun Bansal, Khalid Khan and Randhir Vikram Singh

Kamla Poddar and Abhishek Poddar during the conclave

Dr Shubash Garg and Dr BD Kalla greeted by Abhishek Poddar and Kamla Poddar

Tripti and Dimple Vishal Mathur and Jinendra Singh Shekawat

Rajiv Arora addressing the audience